Jump to content
This site uses cookies. Continued use is acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. More Info... ×

  • Welcome to Celiac.com!

    You have found your celiac tribe! Join us and ask questions in our forum, share your story, and connect with others.



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A1):

    Celiac.com Sponsor (A1-M):

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Our Content
    eNewsletter
    Donate

Getting Ready To Fast

DebNC84

By DebNC84
in Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Recommended Posts

DebNC84 Apprentice
DebNC84
Posted

i just want to vent - I have DH - I've managed to do real well since June of 2007 with only a couple mild outbreaks... I have now spent the last 3 weeks itching like a fiend and breaking out all over the place. something is "getting" me and I can't pin point it! I think i'm going to go on a fast - nothing but water for a few days and knock this crap out of my system - I could scream... really. ok - aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhH! did anyone hear that?

thanks for listening. :) It helps to know someone understands.

Debbie

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


ravenwoodglass Mentor
ravenwoodglass
Posted

I can understand your frustration. Those blasted little sores can be a bear and they do last for such a long time. Perhaps instead of starving yourself you could go for a bit with just naturally gluten free foods. Do check all stuff that you come into contact with. It may not be something you are eating but something that you are putting on your skin or feeding a pet. If your significant other isn't gluten free even a kiss can get you. I seemed to even have problems when using household cleaning stuff, since I have no time or inclination to check household cleaning products I learned the hard way to always wear rubber gloves when I dust or use a bathroom cleaner. Check your makeup, shampoos, any art supplies you use or household remodeling stuff. I hope this clears for you soon.

DebNC84 Apprentice
DebNC84
Posted
  • Author
I can understand your frustration. Those blasted little sores can be a bear and they do last for such a long time. Perhaps instead of starving yourself you could go for a bit with just naturally gluten free foods. Do check all stuff that you come into contact with. It may not be something you are eating but something that you are putting on your skin or feeding a pet. If your significant other isn't gluten free even a kiss can get you. I seemed to even have problems when using household cleaning stuff, since I have no time or inclination to check household cleaning products I learned the hard way to always wear rubber gloves when I dust or use a bathroom cleaner. Check your makeup, shampoos, any art supplies you use or household remodeling stuff. I hope this clears for you soon.

Thanks for your suggestions - what happened was I got very comfortable with the fact that I was doing so well and before I knew it I was changing all kinds of products... hair (switched to Dove) - laundry detergent (bought some arm&hammer) - different brand of butter & sugar (generic butter & dixie crystals)- eating things I was pretty sure I wasn't supposed like lays potato chips -

I'm really thinking it was the new laundry detergent - but I'm not sure. So I'm going to rewash all my clothes today - I don't do a lot of cleaning... really - I hate it - so I think I would know if it was the cleaning products. but I should check just in case. since 07 when I would have a small attack - it would only last a couple days and go away- maybe I would have a small breakout but the cream I use would usually make them go away - this time it's constant and progressive - makes me think it's something I'm getting into daily - suspecting also the sugar i'm putting in my coffee - but dixie crystals is supposed to be gluten-free - I'm super sensitive and will have a flare up it seems from the slightest contamination -

I'll take your advice and go strict - no seasons - nothing processed - straight clean food and we'll see - Thanks again - I just needed someone to talk to. :)

ravenwoodglass Mentor
ravenwoodglass
Posted
Thanks for your suggestions - what happened was I got very comfortable with the fact that I was doing so well and before I knew it I was changing all kinds of products... hair (switched to Dove) - laundry detergent (bought some arm&hammer) - different brand of butter & sugar (generic butter & dixie crystals)- eating things I was pretty sure I wasn't supposed like lays potato chips -

I'm really thinking it was the new laundry detergent - but I'm not sure. So I'm going to rewash all my clothes today - I don't do a lot of cleaning... really - I hate it - so I think I would know if it was the cleaning products. but I should check just in case. since 07 when I would have a small attack - it would only last a couple days and go away- maybe I would have a small breakout but the cream I use would usually make them go away - this time it's constant and progressive - makes me think it's something I'm getting into daily - suspecting also the sugar i'm putting in my coffee - but dixie crystals is supposed to be gluten-free - I'm super sensitive and will have a flare up it seems from the slightest contamination -

I'll take your advice and go strict - no seasons - nothing processed - straight clean food and we'll see - Thanks again - I just needed someone to talk to. :)

You can still have seasonings, just use McCormick single ingredient spices and you should be okay. I agree it sounds like something you are getting on a regualr basis. The Arm and Hammer for sensitive skin is for sure okay, it is the only detergent I use. You going about things the right way, it is tough with DH but eventually those pesky antibodies will leave again. Lays for me are like playing Russian Roulette, you may have found your culprit right there. What I do when I suspect something is drop it and then try it again after I am better. Sometimes that helps figure it out. I would agree to drop that brand of sugar, go with an organic even a raw sugar for a bit and then try the crystals again. Sugar should be gluten free but I seem to have had a CC issue with a large container of that brand. I thought it was great cause it came in a reusable plastic canister but I ended up giving it away. I still don't know for sure if that was it because I chose not to challenge it later. I do hope you figure it out soon.

Sometimes we do need to vent and that is perfectly okay. Feel free to PM if you need or want to.

DebNC84 Apprentice
DebNC84
Posted
  • Author

WELL - it turned out it my Dixie Crystals sugar that was causing my skin reaction - it took a few days but when I removed that particular sugar from my daily intake (in my coffee) I got better. AMAZING! I need to be more careful and always on my guard.

ShayFL Enthusiast
ShayFL
Posted

So glad you figured it out!!

I too use Dove for my hair and A&H sensitive for the laundry with NO problems. :)

  • 4 weeks later...
DebNC84 Apprentice
DebNC84
Posted
  • Author
So glad you figured it out!!

I too use Dove for my hair and A&H sensitive for the laundry with NO problems. :)

i'm not so smart after all - it wasn't the sugar. I started having issues again and thought it was something else... now I'm almost positive it was my coffee filters... duh! never thought about it. I always make sure to by bounty and charmin but I NEVER considered my filters - not one time!!

maybe because I have not had any issues for over a year and just didn't get that deep... I got a new package a few weeks back and i've used about half of them - the timeline is perfect..

going to buy a washable filter and probably a new coffee maker today - sigh.

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A19):


  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      127,081
    • Most Online (within 30 mins)
      7,748
    R Chester
    Newest Member
    R Chester
    Joined
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A20):

  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      121k
    • Total Posts
      69.9k
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A22):



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A21):


  • Upcoming Events

  • Posts

    • Scott Adams
      Rice, corn, and other gluten-free grains.

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      Your approach is spot-on—trusting reliable sources like Mayo Clinic and sticking to a gluten-free diet that works for you is the best way to navigate all the noise out there. The claim that rice and corn contain forms of gluten harmful to celiacs is indeed a misconception. While these grains do contain proteins that may technically be referred to as "glutens" in a broader scientific sense, they are structurally and functionally different from the gliadin found in wheat, which is the specific protein harmful to those with celiac disease. Scientific research overwhelmingly supports the safety of non-contaminated rice and corn for celiacs unless there’s a separate sensitivity or allergy involved. Some opinion pieces or alternative health sources may blur the lines by conflating these proteins, which can cause unnecessary worry. You're absolutely correct to focus on the distinction between scientifically validated information and anecdotal claims. It's also important to note that some people with celiac disease may develop sensitivities to other grains over time, but this is individual and not a universal rule. If you’re asymptomatic and thriving on a diet that includes certified gluten-free products with rice and corn, there’s no reason to change what’s clearly working for you. The internet is a breeding ground for well-meaning but misguided advice, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your instinct to validate claims through reliable research is exactly the right way to go. Keep enjoying your gluten-free meals, stick with trusted certifications, and don’t feel pressured to adopt restrictive diets that aren’t backed by science or tailored to your specific needs. Happy New Year to you too!
    • Scott Adams
      Enegy level extremely low

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      Healing and regaining energy after a celiac diagnosis can be a frustratingly slow process, but you're not alone in feeling this way! Everyone's healing journey is different, and factors like age, how long celiac was undiagnosed, and the extent of intestinal damage can all play a role. In general, villi can begin to heal within a few weeks to months after starting a strict gluten-free diet, but for some adults—especially those diagnosed later in life—it can take a year or more to see significant improvement. Studies suggest that older adults may heal more slowly, but it does happen with consistent gluten avoidance. Since you're already taking iron, vitamin D3, and a multivitamin, you're on the right track. Here are a few additional tips that might help: Be Patient with Your Body: It’s hard to wait, but healing takes time. Track your progress in small ways—maybe energy levels on a scale of 1-10 each week—to notice gradual improvements. Check for Other Deficiencies: Sometimes celiacs have trouble absorbing other nutrients, like B12, magnesium, or zinc, which can also affect energy levels. Your doctor may want to test for these. Consider Other Conditions: Fatigue can be linked to other issues like thyroid problems, adrenal fatigue, or even sleep disturbances, which can sometimes occur alongside celiac disease. It might be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider. Stay Active, but Pace Yourself: Gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, can help improve energy levels, but don’t push yourself too hard—listen to your body. Hydration and Balanced Meals: Make sure you're drinking enough water and eating a balanced gluten-free diet with plenty of whole foods. Sometimes highly processed gluten-free products can leave you feeling sluggish. Remember, healing isn’t just physical—it’s also mental. You’ve made a huge, positive change by going gluten-free, and your body is working hard to repair itself. It’s okay to feel impatient, but know that you're moving in the right direction. Hang in there—you’ll get there!
    • Lotte18
      Can food allergies like milk and soy flatten villi?

      By Lotte18 · Posted

      Hi Scott, I thought I'd be like "most people" and could go back to having dairy once my villi had healed.  But after dealing with neurological problems that cropped up long after my gut had healed it turned out that this just wasn't true.  I have no idea if celiac influences pancreatic enzyme production or if it's the other way around--for some of us-- but there is a very real relationship that isn't being discussed with patients.  The article just reiterates information that can mislead you if your real problem is pancreatic not villi related.  
    • Scott Adams
      Sprouts packaged roasted, salted nuts - says "made in a facility that processes wheat" - has anyone had a problem?

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      One of our current sponsors sells gluten-free nuts: https://www.tierrafarm.com/
    • trents
      Sprouts packaged roasted, salted nuts - says "made in a facility that processes wheat" - has anyone had a problem?

      By trents · Posted

      Welcome to the forum, @Amyinwyoming! Answers to your question that you might receive may not be helpful to you as an individual since sensitivity levels vary significantly within the gluten sensitive/gluten intolerant/celiac community. The other complicating factor is that low levels of gluten in a product may not cause obvious symptoms but may still generate low level inflammation in the small bowel. When in doubt, it is best to pass on the product. I'm not a particularly sensitive celiac so I might allow myself to eat something at a guest's house that was made from a food product with the kind of disclaimer label you describe but I typically shy away from buying them or consuming them when I have a choice.
×
×
  • Create New...